POWERTEC Woodworking Safety and Precision Kit

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your POWERTEC Safety and Precision Woodworking Kit. This kit includes the Max Grip Push Block and Push Stick Set, along with the Stackable Featherboard Kit, designed to enhance safety, control, and versatility in your woodworking projects. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the tools.

Figure 1: Complete POWERTEC Woodworking Safety and Precision Kit.

Product Components

Your POWERTEC Woodworking Safety and Precision Kit includes the following:

• One (1) Long Hold Down Push Block
• Two (2) Short Hold Down Push Blocks
• One (1) Safe V Stick (V-shaped Push Stick)
• One (1) Straight Push Stick
• One (1) Multi-functional Featherboard
• One (1) 5/16" Washer
• One (1) 5-star Knob
• One (1) 5/16"-18 x 2.5" T-bolt (for T-track mounting)
• One (1) Slide Bracket with a 5/16"-18 x 3" Flat Head Bolt (for miter slot mounting)

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with power tools. These accessories are designed to enhance safety, but proper technique and awareness are crucial.

• Keep Hands Clear: Always use push blocks and push sticks to keep your hands a safe distance from cutting blades and rotating bits.
• Prevent Kickback: Apply firm, consistent downward and forward pressure on the workpiece to prevent kickback, especially when using table saws and router tables.
• Secure Setup: Ensure all tools and accessories are properly secured before beginning any operation.
• Wear Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and dust masks.
• Inspect Tools: Before each use, inspect push blocks, push sticks, and featherboards for any damage or wear. Do not use damaged tools.

Figure 2: Push blocks protecting fingers and preventing kickback.

Figure 3: Maintaining firm and steady downward pressure with a push block.

Setup

Featherboard Installation

The POWERTEC featherboard features a dual mounting system for compatibility with both standard miter slots and universal T-tracks.

1. For Miter Slots: Insert the slide bracket with the 5/16"-18 x 3" flat head bolt into your tool's miter slot. Position the featherboard over the bolt and secure it with the 5-star knob and washer.
2. For T-Tracks: Insert the 5/16"-18 x 2.5" T-bolt into your tool's T-track. Position the featherboard over the T-bolt and secure it with the 5-star knob and washer.
3. Adjust Pressure: Loosen the 5-star knob, slide the featherboard until its angled fingers apply optimal pressure against the workpiece, then tighten the knob securely. The fingers should deflect slightly when the workpiece is pushed through.
4. Stacking Featherboards: For taller workpieces, multiple featherboards can be stacked. Their unique design allows them to interlock securely without the need for additional spacers.

Figure 4: Featherboard setup on a router table.

Figure 5: Featherboard mounted in a universal T-track fence.

Operating Instructions

Using Push Blocks

Push blocks are ideal for maintaining control and applying consistent pressure on wider workpieces, especially on jointers, table saws, and router tables.

• Place the push block firmly on top of the workpiece.
• Apply downward pressure to keep the workpiece flat against the table and forward pressure to feed it through the cut.
• Use two short push blocks for better control on longer pieces, or one long push block for broader surfaces.

Figure 6: Using a long push block for guiding a workpiece.

Using Push Sticks

Push sticks are essential for feeding narrow or small workpieces, ensuring your hands remain far from the blade.

• Straight Push Stick: Use for narrow cuts or when space is limited. Position the end of the stick against the back edge of the workpiece and push it through the cut.
• V-shaped Push Stick (Safe V Stick): Offers enhanced control and maneuverability, especially close to the blade. The V-shape allows for better grip and guidance on the workpiece.
• Always maintain control and avoid pushing directly into the blade.

Figure 7: Using the straight push stick.

Figure 8: Using the V-shaped push stick.

Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your POWERTEC woodworking safety tools.

• Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the push blocks, push sticks, and featherboard with a damp cloth to remove sawdust and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the plastic.
• Storage: Store all components in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the tools for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged components immediately to maintain safety and performance.

Troubleshooting

These tools are designed for straightforward operation. Most issues can be resolved by ensuring proper setup and technique.

• Workpiece Not Feeding Smoothly: Ensure the featherboard is not applying too much pressure. Adjust the featherboard to allow slight deflection of its fingers. For push blocks/sticks, ensure consistent forward pressure.
• Tools Slipping: Ensure the rubberized base of the push blocks is clean and free of sawdust. For featherboards, ensure the mounting knob is securely tightened.
• Kickback Occurs: Re-evaluate your technique. Ensure you are applying sufficient downward and forward pressure with push blocks/sticks, and that the featherboard is properly set to hold the workpiece against the fence.

Specifications

Figure 9: Featherboard Dimensions.

Figure 10: Mounting Hardware Dimensions.

Warranty and Support

POWERTEC products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For any questions regarding product operation, maintenance, or warranty information, please contact POWERTEC customer support through their official website or the retailer where the product was purchased.